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Process Once a Complaint is Filed

Process Once a Complaint is Filed

The Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) investigates complaints of discrimination in housing, employment, and places of public accommodations because of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, age (in employment only), and familial status (in housing only).

INTAKE

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Intake staff is available to assist with filing a complaint of discrimination or referring to another agency if the MCHR lacks jurisdiction over the matter.

COMPLAINT IS FILED

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After a complaint is filed, the MCHR serves the complaint to the named respondents and the parties are invited to mediate or settle the complaint. The complainant may ask for a Notice of Right to Sue. The complainant would have 90 days to file suit against the respondent.

INVESTIGATION

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The investigator acts as a neutral fact-finder and does not represent either party. The investigator interviews witnesses, gathers and reviews documents, and writes an investigative summary.

DETERMINATION

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If the case is not settled, the Chairperson will set the matter for hearing or dismiss the case.
No Probable Cause: When no discrimination is found, the MCHR closes its case and notifies the complainant of his/her Right to Sue. The complainant then has 90 days to file suit against the respondent.

THE HEARING PROCESS

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At the hearing, the MCHR’s case is generally presented by an Assistant Attorney General. The Hearing Examiner conducts the hearing and issues a finding and recommendation.

FINAL DECISION AND ORDER

The Commission issues a Final Decision and Order. If no discrimination is found, then the case is dismissed. If discrimination is found, remedies are ordered. Remedies may include re-instatement or promotion, back pay, and damages for pain, suffering, humiliation, and deprivation of rights. Either party has the right to appeal the decision to circuit court.